1. Bowdoin College
Overview
Location: Brunswick, Maine
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College is a private liberal arts college consistently ranked among the top liberal arts schools in the country. Bowdoin is known for its rigorous academics, commitment to sustainability, and strong programs in government, environmental studies, and the humanities. Bowdoin places a strong emphasis on social responsibility, diversity, and leadership.
The college’s coastal Maine setting provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in outdoor activities and environmental research.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #6 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: Around 1,800
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Average SAT Score: 1350-1510
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Outing Club (one of the largest outdoor activity groups in the U.S.)
- Polar Bears Athletics
- Environmental sustainability organizations
- Student government and leadership programs
- Arts and music ensembles
Famous Alumni
- Nathaniel Hawthorne – Author (The Scarlet Letter)
- Joshua Chamberlain – Civil War hero and Governor of Maine
- Reed Hastings – CEO of Netflix
- George Mitchell – Former U.S. Senator and diplomat
- William Cohen – Former U.S. Secretary of Defense
Top Employers
- L.L. Bean
- IDEXX Laboratories
- Maine Medical Center
- Bowdoin College
- WEX Inc.
2. Colby College
Overview
Location: Waterville, Maine
Founded in 1813, Colby College is a private liberal arts college with a strong focus on academic rigor, sustainability, and global engagement. Colby is known for its programs in environmental studies, economics, and government. The college prides itself on its active study abroad programs, with over 70% of students studying internationally before graduating.
Colby’s commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in its sustainability initiatives, including a carbon-neutral campus.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #12 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: About 2,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- Average SAT Score: 1380-1510
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Colby Outdoor Orientation Trips (COOT)
- Mules Athletics
- Volunteer and community service programs
- Environmental and sustainability clubs
- Study abroad and international programs
Famous Alumni
- Billy Bush – TV personality
- Robert E. Diamond – Former CEO of Barclays
- Olympia Snowe – Former U.S. Senator
- Art Buchwald – Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist
- Eduardo Porter – Journalist and economics writer
Top Employers
- Colby College
- Unum
- IDEXX Laboratories
- MaineGeneral Health
- L.L. Bean
3. Bates College
Overview
Location: Lewiston, Maine
Founded in 1855, Bates College is a private liberal arts college known for its inclusive environment, commitment to social justice, and strong academic programs in political science, environmental studies, and economics. Bates is one of the first colleges in the U.S. to admit students regardless of race or gender and remains committed to fostering diversity and inclusion.
Bates emphasizes experiential learning and offers students numerous opportunities for internships, community-based research, and off-campus study.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #25 National Liberal Arts Colleges
- Number of Students: Around 1,800
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate degrees only
- Acceptance Rate: 14%
- Average SAT Score: 1340-1470
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Bobcats Athletics
- Bates Dance Festival
- Environmental sustainability and activism clubs
- Volunteer and social justice organizations
- Outing Club and outdoor adventures
Famous Alumni
- Edmund Muskie – Former U.S. Secretary of State
- Benjamin Mays – Civil rights leader and mentor to Martin Luther King Jr.
- John Cariani – Actor and playwright (Law & Order)
- Bryant Gumbel – TV journalist and host
- Elizabeth Strout – Pulitzer Prize-winning author (Olive Kitteridge)
Top Employers
- Bates College
- Central Maine Medical Center
- Unum
- WEX Inc.
- Maine Medical Center
4. University of Maine
Overview
Location: Orono, Maine
Founded in 1865, the University of Maine (UMaine) is the state’s flagship public research university. UMaine is known for its strong programs in engineering, marine sciences, and forestry. It is home to several leading research centers, including the Advanced Structures and Composites Center and the Climate Change Institute. UMaine plays a significant role in the state’s economy and is a leader in sustainability initiatives.
UMaine offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including graduate and doctoral degrees, and provides students with numerous research opportunities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #219 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 11,400
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Average SAT Score: 1050-1270
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Black Bears Athletics
- Greek life
- Marine science and environmental research organizations
- Student government and leadership programs
- Outdoor recreation clubs
Famous Alumni
- Stephen King – Best-selling author
- Paul LePage – Former Governor of Maine
- Olympia Snowe – Former U.S. Senator
- Chuck Peddle – Inventor of the personal computer
- John Baldacci – Former Governor of Maine
Top Employers
- University of Maine
- Bangor Savings Bank
- IDEXX Laboratories
- L.L. Bean
- Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems
5. University of New England
Overview
Location: Biddeford, Maine
The University of New England (UNE), founded in 1831, is a private university known for its healthcare, biological sciences, and osteopathic medicine programs. UNE is home to Maine’s only medical school and is a leader in health professions education. The university emphasizes hands-on learning, with students gaining practical experience in clinical settings, research labs, and through community outreach programs.
UNE’s beautiful coastal campus in Biddeford provides students with access to marine research opportunities and environmental programs.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #285 National Universities
- Number of Students: Around 7,200
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Average SAT Score: 1040-1250
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- UNE Nor’easters Athletics
- Medical and health professions clubs
- Marine biology and environmental research programs
- Community service and outreach organizations
- Surfing and outdoor adventure clubs
Famous Alumni
- Lindsey Hunter – Osteopathic physician and educator
- Laurie Lachance – President of Thomas College
- Michael Michaud – Former U.S. Congressman
- Kurt Adams – CEO of Summit Utilities
- John Jenkins – Former Mayor of Lewiston and Auburn
Top Employers
- MaineHealth
- Northern Light Health
- IDEXX Laboratories
- University of New England
- Portland Public Schools
6. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Overview
Location: Standish, Maine
Founded in 1912, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is a private, Catholic liberal arts college that offers a broad range of academic programs, with a focus on nursing, education, and business. The college’s campus on the shores of Sebago Lake provides students with a peaceful environment for learning. Saint Joseph’s emphasizes community service, leadership, and ethical decision-making as core values of its education.
The college’s small class sizes and personalized learning experience foster strong connections between faculty and students.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #135 Regional Universities North
- Number of Students: Around 2,000 (including online students)
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Average SAT Score: 1040-1230
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Monks Athletics
- Campus ministry and service organizations
- Nursing and healthcare clubs
- Outdoor adventure and environmental programs
- Leadership development and student government
Famous Alumni
- John Jenkins – Former Maine State Senator
- Joan Benoit Samuelson – Olympic gold medalist in marathon
- Laurie Lachance – President of Thomas College
- Michael Cunniff – Major General in the U.S. Air Force
- John Baldacci – Former Governor of Maine
Top Employers
- MaineHealth
- Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
- Portland Public Schools
- IDEXX Laboratories
- Northern Light Health
7. Husson University
Overview
Location: Bangor, Maine
Founded in 1898, Husson University is a private university known for its professional programs in business, healthcare, and technology. Husson offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including one of the top-rated nursing programs in Maine. The university emphasizes experiential learning, providing students with opportunities for internships, clinical experiences, and hands-on research.
Husson’s close proximity to Bangor allows students to engage with local businesses, healthcare providers, and the community.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #107 Regional Universities North
- Number of Students: Around 3,700
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 85%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1170
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Eagles Athletics
- Student government and leadership programs
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Healthcare and nursing organizations
- Outdoor adventure and fitness clubs
Famous Alumni
- Phil Harriman – Political consultant and former Maine State Senator
- Mike Michaud – Former U.S. Congressman
- Reid Lanpher – Professional race car driver
- Bob Crowley – Winner of Survivor: Gabon
- Ryan Flaherty – MLB player
Top Employers
- Northern Light Health
- Bangor Savings Bank
- Husson University
- IDEXX Laboratories
- Hannaford Supermarkets
8. Maine Maritime Academy
Overview
Location: Castine, Maine
Maine Maritime Academy (MMA), founded in 1941, is a public college that specializes in maritime education and engineering. The academy offers hands-on training in marine transportation, engineering, and international logistics management, making it one of the top maritime schools in the United States. Students at MMA participate in at-sea training aboard the academy’s training vessel, preparing them for careers in the maritime and transportation industries.
MMA graduates are highly sought after for their technical skills and leadership abilities.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #4 Regional Colleges North
- Number of Students: About 950
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 55%
- Average SAT Score: 1070-1260
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Mariners Athletics
- Marine engineering and transportation clubs
- Regiment of Midshipmen (military-style training)
- Student government and leadership programs
- Sailing and rowing teams
Famous Alumni
- Edward Walsh – CEO of American Maritime Officers
- Joseph R. Papp – Founder of Papco, Inc.
- Patrick D. Hunt – U.S. Coast Guard Vice Admiral
- John W. Young – Captain in the U.S. Navy
- Elaine Harmon – World War II WASP pilot
Top Employers
- U.S. Navy
- Crowley Maritime Corporation
- American Bureau of Shipping
- General Dynamics Bath Iron Works
- Maersk Line
9. University of Southern Maine
Overview
Location: Portland, Maine
The University of Southern Maine (USM), founded in 1878, is a public university with campuses in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston. USM offers a broad range of programs in business, education, social work, and healthcare, making it a key institution for workforce development in the state. USM has a strong commitment to community engagement and applied learning, providing students with internships, research opportunities, and service-learning projects.
The university’s location in Portland, Maine’s largest city, provides students with access to a vibrant cultural and professional scene.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #131 Regional Universities North
- Number of Students: About 8,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Average SAT Score: 1000-1190
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Huskies Athletics
- Greek life
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Nursing and healthcare organizations
- Volunteer and community outreach programs
Famous Alumni
- Angus King – U.S. Senator
- Mike Michaud – Former U.S. Congressman
- Gordon Smith – Attorney and former U.S. Senate Majority Leader
- Martha Hennessey – New Hampshire State Senator
- Jessica Meir – NASA astronaut
Top Employers
- MaineHealth
- WEX Inc.
- IDEXX Laboratories
- Unum
- University of Southern Maine
10. Thomas College
Overview
Location: Waterville, Maine
Founded in 1894, Thomas College is a private college that specializes in business, technology, and education. Thomas College is known for its career-focused education, offering students strong internship opportunities and partnerships with local industries. The college has a high job placement rate for graduates, with many students securing employment shortly after graduation. Thomas College is dedicated to providing students with hands-on learning and professional development.
Its small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and close relationships between students and faculty.
Quick Facts
- U.S. News Ranking: #40 Regional Colleges North
- Number of Students: Around 1,000
- Degrees Offered: Undergraduate and Graduate degrees
- Acceptance Rate: 94%
- Average SAT Score: 950-1160
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
- Terriers Athletics
- Business and entrepreneurship clubs
- Student government and leadership programs
- Education and teaching organizations
- Volunteer and community service groups
Famous Alumni
- Laurie Lachance – President of Thomas College
- Matt Skehan – Commissioner of Maine’s Department of Conservation
- George Hale – Radio and TV broadcaster
- William C. Ryan – Former Maine State Senator
- Mike Thibodeau – Former President of the Maine Senate
Top Employers
- MaineGeneral Health
- Thomas College
- Cianbro Corporation
- Bangor Savings Bank
- L.L. Bean